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If any of you have tried to remove your tail light lens from the backing plate, you know it can be challenging. Here is something I found that works really well.
1. Use a bolt with washers to mount the lens in a vise. I did grind down 2 flats on the washer that went inside the lens. That allowed it to slip in the slots for the bulb socket.
2. Using a propane torch, gently heat the backside of the metal plate, around the gasket area. Stay away from the plastic lens.
3. While heating the metal plate, gently try to rock the plastic lens. Once it frees up, it will be easy to remove.
I removed 2 lens with no problems and even was able to save the gasket on one of them. Once removed you can paint the inside of the lens white and then reinstall. If you are so inclined, you could also polish the lens using a white buffing compound and finish with a headlight restoring plastic polish. Worked great for me.
And for those of you that look really close, yes I have a few more decals to put on the backing plate. That is tonights project.
Nyles
1. Use a bolt with washers to mount the lens in a vise. I did grind down 2 flats on the washer that went inside the lens. That allowed it to slip in the slots for the bulb socket.
2. Using a propane torch, gently heat the backside of the metal plate, around the gasket area. Stay away from the plastic lens.
3. While heating the metal plate, gently try to rock the plastic lens. Once it frees up, it will be easy to remove.
I removed 2 lens with no problems and even was able to save the gasket on one of them. Once removed you can paint the inside of the lens white and then reinstall. If you are so inclined, you could also polish the lens using a white buffing compound and finish with a headlight restoring plastic polish. Worked great for me.
And for those of you that look really close, yes I have a few more decals to put on the backing plate. That is tonights project.
Nyles
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